Important Information

Region
Mustang Region Treks
Duration
17 Days
Max Altitude 4200 Meters
Best Season Spring, Summer & Autumn
Activity Per Day
3-4 hours Ride
Grade
Level 2
Group Size
2 - 12 people
Transportation Jeep/Bus

It's an incredible journey to the last vestige of Tibetan-style kingdoms: Upper Mustang

Are you looking for the best trip to experience in Upper Mustang? If your answer is 'Yes,' then you are on the right page. We are a local agency from Upper Mustang that provides you with the best overland Jeep tour in the ancient Lo Kingdom of Upper Mustang. 

Why is the Overland Tour to Upper Mustang Getting Popular?
The jeep tour in Upper Mustang is getting more popular because of the Kora La highway connecting China on the northern border of Nepal via Beni and Jomsom. To escape from the dusty trekking route, Himalayan wanderers have created this trip. This Jeep tour to Upper Mustang is not a rigid itinerary where you can change according to your comfort and time availability. The vicinity of Lo Kingdom is mainly the ancient caves where people used to live, centuries-old wall paintings, Buddhist holy monasteries, snow-capped mountains, barren high hills, unique landscape, Tibetan culture, and beautiful villages still preserved well. This trip will provide you with a mystical touch of unforgettable. 

How did we organize the Jeep tour in Upper Mustang? 
Himalayan Wander Walkers provides a local guide for this trip to experience in the best way for all our guests. This Upper Mustang Jeep Tour has covered all the interesting and popular attractions of upper Mustang, such as Lo-Gyakar Gompa/Ghar Gompa (oldest Buddhist monastery), Konchokling (Land of God), Rinchenling (mind-blowing wall painting cave), Luri Gompa (mystical monastery), Shija Jong cave (the ancient cave where people used to live at one time), Lo-Manthang (ancient walled city), Dokpa (nomadic life), etc. 

Upper Mustang Jeep Tour Route
The Jeep Tour to Upper Mustang's day-to-day itinerary given below is not a rigid itinerary, and you can change it according to your comfort and time availability by discussing it with your guide during the trip. According to the itinerary, its route also changes. Though the actual trip starts from Kathmandu, the real jeep driving route starts and finishes in Pokhara, following the Kali Gandaki river in the northern direction. 

If you are looking for a different itinerary than the itinerary here, please Customize Your Trip 

What to Expect in Upper Mustang? 
The vicinity of Lo Kingdom is mainly the ancient caves where people used to live, centuries-old wall paintings, Buddhist holy monasteries, snow-capped mountains, barren high hills, unique landscape, Tibetan culture, and beautiful villages still preserved well. This trip will provide you with a mystical touch of the unforgettable.

 Highlights of Upper Mustang Jeep Tour 

  • Achieve all the possible things that you are looking for in Upper Mustang. 
  • Explore the mystical valley of Mustang, dominated by Sakyapa lineages in the Buddhist religion.
  • Experience the overland trip on the mesmerizing landscape. 
  • Feel comfortable while on a trip.
  • Discover the ancient arts. 
  • Century-old monasteries and Buddhist monuments.
  • Travel with a local guide. 

Visit our blog to learn more about the Upper Mustang 4x4 Jeep Tour.

Outline Itinerary ( 17 Days )

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal

Welcome assistance from a Himalayan Wander Walkers representative at the Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to the hotel; rest at the hotel and receive a briefing about the trip.
Overnight at 3-Star Accommodation.
Meal: (Breakfast)

Day 2

Morning Kathmandu sightseeing and fly to Pokhara (800m).

After your breakfast, you will be picked up by your guide and driver for sightseeing in Kathmandu. Explore the unique art and architecture, culture and tradition, and unparalleled features of the landscape of Nepal, which are UNESCO-listed, famous sites of Kathmandu Durbar, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath Stupa. After the sightseeing, you will be dropped at Kathmandu domestic airport for departure to Pokhara. The flight duration between Kathmandu and Pokhara is 25 minutes. Check in at the hotel, and your guide will take you for an evening walk along the Phewa Lake.
Overnight at 3-Star Accommodation.
Meal: (Breakfast)

Day 3

Drive by private Jeep from Pokhara to Marpha (2650m)

You will embark on your awaited 4x4 wheel adventurous journey to Upper Mustang from today onward. The scenic drive from Pokhara to Beni through Nau Danda (nine hills) makes a perfect road trip. By covering 85, you will reach Beni, the headquarters of Myagdi district. The road passes through the world’s deepest gorge, Kali Gandaki, presenting spectacular mountain views of several famous peaks within the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri area from both sides. On the way, you will take a few breaks for lunch and toilets. Finally, reach Marpha for a stopover. Take a short and easy walk through the streets of Marpha and the monastery to witness the mind-blowing view.
Overnight at Local Lodge/Guest House.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Day 4

Drive from Marpha to Chhuksang via Kagbeni (2850m).

Today, you will enter the region of Upper Mustang. After your breakfast, you will drive to Kagbeni, and your guide will register your permits and then take you on a short walk through the narrow underpassing street of Kagbeni. You will also visit the monastery and see local monks. Then continue your road trip to Chhusang. After your lunch, you will have a side trip to Gompa Gang and Tetang, where you will encounter the ruins of abandoned typical houses.
Overnight at Local Lodge/Guest House.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Day 5

Drive from Chhusang to Ghami via Sangbochen and Chungshi Cave Monastery.

After a great two days of acclimatization, you will drive towards Syangboche (3,800m) through Samar village. Many trekkers used to like the old trekking trail between Chele and Samar. Now, the old salt trading route is destroyed due to a newly constructed road above it. From the road, you will witness the great view of Nilgiri and other Annapurna ranges in the southern skyline. Though the driving distance is not so far, you will stop at multiple viewpoints to see the surrounding nature. Later, you will have lunch at Sangbochen and take a side trip to Chungshi Rangjung Cave Monastery (sacred cave monastery). The well-known Buddhist Tantric master Padmasambhava meditated here centuries ago. Inside the cave monastery, you will see spontaneous stone statues of Avalokiteshvara (Chenresig), Tara, and prayer beads. Finally, you will drive to Ghami with a short visit to Gelling Village.
Overnight at Local Lodge/Guest House.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Day 6

Ghami to Lo Manthang Via Dhakmar and Lo Gyakar Monastery.

From Ghami, the road crosses the Ghami River and heads to Dhakmar via the longest stoned Mani Wall in Mustang. You will stop there to explore the Mani Wall and the old Chortens that lie nearby. Then you will drive to Dhakmar, the village of Red Cliff. Locals believe that the formation of the red cliff is from the demon’s blood, which split over the cliff during the assassination of the demon by Guru Rinpoche. After a short break at Dhakmar, you will continue your drive to Mui La (4179m). From here, Lo Gyakar Gompa (Ghar Gompa) is a few minutes' drive. This monastery is considered the oldest Mahayana Buddhist monastery, which was built 6 centuries ago. Then continue to drive to Marang village for lunch. From Marang, you will drive through Samduk Chorten and the army barracks. Finally, you will reach Dalo La, from where you will see Lo Manthang and its surrounding villages. After a short drive from there, you will reach your hotel in Lo Manthang.
Overnight at Local Lodge/Guest House.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Day 7

Visit Monasteries and Caves of Chosar and Visit Konchokling Landscape

Today, you will explore around Chosar. At first, you will drive to Konchokling and then drive to Nyphuk village for lunch. In the afternoon, visit historic Shija Zong Cave, monasteries, and traditional cave houses. Return to Lo Manthang.
Overnight at the Hotel.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Day 8

Visit Yak Herders and Monasteries of Lo Manthang

Today you will drive to the Yak Nomadic place to experience the lifestyle of Upper Mustang Nomads. You will also spot herds of goats and sheep milking and grazing in the mountain. Then you will return to the lodge for breakfast. After your breakfast we will visit the Namgyal Monastery, located at Namgyal Village. The afternoon will be time to visit three main monasteries of Lo Manthang: Thupchen, Jampa, and Choede.
Overnight at Local Lodge/Guest House.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Day 9

Drive to Ghara and Visit Luri Gompa

Today is a day to say goodbye to Lo-Manthang and the beginning of the eastern Mustang journey. The jeep road retraces to Charang and then descends to the Kali Gandaki River. You will enjoy the beautiful canyon and rock formations that surround the road. When you reach the bridge just before the Dhee village, the valley widens up and you see Surkhang village on your right side. The views are more rewarding and interesting than the western part of the Mustang. After a few minutes of the gentle climb, you will reach Yara. Yara is warmer in terms of temperature compared with other villages of Upper Mustang. From Yara, the road is uphill but a short drive. After the delicious lunch at Ghara, you will visit Luri Gompa and Tashi Kabung Chorten in the afternoon. Locals believe that there are 108 Kabung (stupas), and only a few of them have been discovered.
Overnight at Local Lodge/Guest House.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Day 10

Drive to Charang and Visit Tange

Today you will explore Tange village, an isolated village that was used as a refuge by Tibetan guerrilla groups between 1959 to 1965. You leave Ghara and Yara along a high-winding path, retracing the dirt road till Dechang Khola and then climbing in the south direction to Tange. This road offers breathtaking views during the drive. Finally, you reach the Tangye village hidden behind the deep valley surrounded by beautiful Chortens here. After your lunch you will drive to Charang village. Tsarang or Charang is a historical village inside the Upper Mustang that is adorned by a maze of fields and willow trees. One of the oldest monasteries and palaces here in Tsarang is also the main attraction of this trip. In the evening you will take a walk within the village and explore.
Overnight at Local Lodge/Guest House.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Day 11

Drive to Tatopani and Visit Muktinath

Today after your breakfast you will drive to Jomsom, and on the way, you will visit Muktinath Temple. The spiritual connection between Kali Gandaki and Muktinath Temple plays an important role for Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims in Mustang. You visit the main temple after lunch and tour its surroundings. You will also admire the 108 water spouts before paying a visit to a Buddhist monastery nearby. In the early afternoon, you will continue to drive to Tatopani on the way, visiting Marpha village with a monastery and stopping for photos of Kali Gandaki Valley, including a stop at Rupse Waterfall. Early evening arrival at Tatopani and, if not too late, visit hot springs (most likely leave hot springs the next morning if you don’t have enough time).
Overnight at the Hotel.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Day 12

Drive to Pokhara Via Baglung, Kali Gandaki Golden Bridge

Early morning visit to Tatopani Hot Springs (if no time on the previous day). In the late morning, drive to Pokhara, stopping on the way at Galeshwor Hindu temple, Golden Gandaki Suspension bridge at Baglung, and at the end with a visit to The Cliff Kushma Suspension bridge park with at least 1 hour free time for optional activities. Drive to Pokhara and check in.
Overnight at 3 Star Accommodation.
Meal: (Breakfast)

Day 13

Pokhara Sightseeing and Evening Flight to Kathmandu

Early morning visit to Sarangkot for a sunrise view by cable car and return to the hotel for breakfast. Visit the International Mountain Museum and Gupteshwor Mahadev Temple and drop to the airport for departure to Kathmandu. After arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to a hotel and invite them for a farewell dinner.
Overnight at 3-Star Accommodation.
Meal: (Breakfast)

Day 14

Final Departure

We are saying goodbye as your journey to Nepal comes to an end today. If you have more time, you can do some shopping or sightseeing. Approximately 3-4 hours before your scheduled flight, a representative from Himalayan Wander Walkers will take you to the airport. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.
Meal: (Breakfast)

 

Include

Airport pick up and drop off
Kathmandu to Pokhara and Return Flight
English-speaking government license holder trekking guide
TIMS trekking permit
Mustang special permit
Transportation by 4x4 Car during the trip in Upper Mustang as per itinerary
Meal during the trip except in Pokhara and Kathmandu
Hotel in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Jomsom
Accommodation during the trip in Upper Mustang

Exclude

Personal equipment
Travel/medical insurance
Emergency rescue evacuation expenses
Phone calls & Internet
Monastery entry fee
International air ticket
Tips for your crew
All kind of drinks except teas

Important Information

Checklist for Upper Mustang 4x4 Wheeler Jeep Tour

  • Valid passport (valid for six months from the date of your trip)
  • One other picture ID, such as driver’s license (in case of emergency and for use as a substitute of passport or in case of loss of your passport) Photocopy of passport page to carry in a wallet
  • Air tickets (Make a copy of flight tickets which may be helpful, in case of loss)
  • Visa Clearance (Make a copy of visa clearance which may be helpful, in case of emergencies)
  • MasterCard, Visa Credit, and Debit Cards are accepted in Nepal. However, traveler's cheques and some cash are highly recommended.
  • Mobile (if your cell phone is from CINGULAR USA or ATNT (USA) operators then your cell phone will  work in Nepal.)

Guiding, Food, and Lodging during Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
In this Jeep overland tour to Upper Mustang you will be staying and eating in local lodges. We provide you a single room where possible, but often you will have to share. In some areas the rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow, blankets. In this trip you will find electricity in most of the area thatr we cover. Even if there is no electricity, you will get to charge your device from solar power. We eat at teahouses/lodges and, although the food is usually plentiful and delicious, the menu is not expensive. They offer a variety of potatoes, rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup and seasonal vegetables. Beers and local spirits are often available, but that will be at your own cost. A variety of cereals, bread, and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast. There are also snacks available such as basic biscuits, chocolate, and soft drinks and in some areas, you will find fresh fruit in season. 

DRESS CODE FOR VISITING MONASTERIES, AND TEMPLES IN NEPAL

  • Shirt (either half or full sleeve)
  • Full pants/long skirts
  • Any type of shoes with socks
  • No Hats, No Umbrella, No Slippers, No t-shirts, No short skirt, and No half-pants
  • Photographs are allowed in the courtyard only.

Note regarding itineraries
Although we generally adhere to the schedule, the itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control, including weather and terrain conditions, suitable campsite availability, and the group's general fitness level. It is important to understand that our trek is logistically complex and it is not unusual that adjustments to be made. Our guide will orient you each evening to the following day's plan; their good judgment is the key to the long history of successful treks that Himalayan Wander Walkers has led till now. Please remember that our ability to make adjustments as needed helps to ensure that your trek is successful.

Frequently Asked Question

Yes, you need a Restricted Area Permit and an ACAP Permit to enter Upper Mustang, which can be easily obtained from a government-licensed company in Kathmandu or Pokhara. These permits are required to ensure safety and preserve the region’s unique culture and environment. Read more about trekking permits and their cost in the Mustang Region.

The tour is less physically demanding than trekking, but the rugged terrain and high altitudes may still pose a challenge. The journey is suitable for those who prefer a more relaxed adventure without the strenuous effort of hiking.

We use a 4X4 Toyota Land Cruiser or a 4X4 Mahindra Scorpio for our Upper Mustang Jeep tour, specifically designed to handle the rough terrain. These vehicles provide a safe and comfortable ride through Upper Mustang’s rugged roads. Our drivers are highly experienced in off-road driving, and they have maintained a 100% safety record to date.

Yes, traveling by Jeep is safe when guided by experienced drivers. The vehicles are built for off-road conditions, and drivers are skilled in navigating the challenging terrain of Upper Mustang.

Altitude sickness can occur in regions above 2,500 meters, and the Upper Mustang tour takes you to elevations over 4,200 meters. Although traveling by Jeep reduces physical strain compared to trekking, acclimatization is still important. The tour is designed with rest days to help you adjust. Staying hydrated, avoiding exertion, and listening to your body are essential. If symptoms of altitude sickness occur, your guide will assist in descending to a lower altitude for recovery.

The cost of the Upper Mustang Jeep tour depends on the services you prefer. This varies among our itineraries due to the different offerings from various trekking companies. Himalayan Wander Walkers offers prices ranging from $2,100 to $2,800 per person. Additionally, the cost of the Upper Mustang Jeep tour depends on the number of days, the number of trekkers, and the category of hotels in Kathmandu, the Mustang Region, and Pokhara city.

Yes, we will supply you with an experienced and informed local guide. They will lead you as they are familiar with every location in this area. They can also serve as a mediator between you and other individuals because they speak English fluently. They will also provide you with the information you need regarding the history, culture, religion, and customs of the area. Since they have had basic first aid training, they will respond to any accidents or incidents right away.

The Jeep Tour of Upper Mustang typically covers 7 to 10 villages, including key destinations such as Lo Manthang, Chhusang, Kagbeni, Samar, Geling, Ghami, Dhakmar, and Charang. If you have enough time, additional important villages can be included. However, if you're limited on time, the tour will focus on the most famous and significant villages of Mustang.

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